It is with deep sadness that we share the news that Heather Jones, the inaugural Senior Program Manager for the FASD Hub, passed away on Saturday 7 January 2023, surrounded by her loved ones.
Heather was appointed as the FASD Hub’s Senior Program Manager in 2016, after working at the Telethon Kids Institute as a member of the project team undertaking development work on the diagnostic instrument for FASD.
Under Heather’s stewardship, the FASD Hub website officially launched on FASD Awareness Day in 2017, and since then, it has grown to become one of the leading sources for FASD information nationally.
Nothing was ever too much for Heather and her tireless work really enabled the establishment and development of the Hub and the completion of many other of our endeavours in FASD.
Professor Elizabeth Elliott
Chair, FASD Hub
Heather was well known and respected throughout the FASD Community, forming deep connections with people living with FASD and their families, and making sure they were the centre of every project and event. The 'Heather Jones Community Award' was created in her honour to recognise those who show an extraordinary commitment to raising awareness and understanding of FASD.
Never refusing the invitation to share her knowledge, Heather was at ease talking to government, researchers and clinicians, and was instrumental in developing education programs for police, magistrates, and other justice professionals across the state.
Heather's endeavours in research, education and promotion of FASD has had a truly profound effect on all those travelling the FASD journey and is looked upon with awe and inspiration. Heather has been such a great leader for FASD, she has helped so many people and all involved have greatly benefitted from her incredible efforts.
Neil Reynolds
Foster Parent
Heather was a true champion of others, especially young and emerging researchers, who would often receive a tap on the shoulder with encouragement to apply for a certain grant she had found. She saw every challenge as an opportunity and was truly one of the hardest working people at the Institute – thinking nothing of starting her working day at 5am.
Always keen for a chat, Heather took a genuine interest in the lives of all whom she met. Her children and grandchildren were her proudest achievements, and our deepest condolences go out to her children Ngaire and Aaron, and her grandchildren Scarlett, Remy and Noa. She will be missed.